The poor general health of the severely mentally ill: impact of schizophrenic diagnosis

COVID-19 in People With Schizophrenia: Potential Mechanisms Linking Schizophrenia to Poor Prognosis

As the global burden of mortality from COVID-19 continues to rise, an understanding of who is most at risk of adverse outcomes is of paramount importance. Pre-existing cardiometabolic, renal and respiratory diseases as well as old age are well-established risk factors associated with disease severity and mortality among patients with COVID-19. However, mounting evidence also indicates an increased susceptibility to, and risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19 in people with schizophrenia, independent of age and comorbidity. Therefore, elucidating the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms which may increase the risk of poor outcomes in people with schizophrenia is of crucial importance. Here, we provide a narrative on the current understanding of COVID-19 in patients with schizophrenia and propose potential mechanisms which may link schizophrenia with an increased susceptibility to, and greater risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19. Given the existing knowledge gaps, robust clinical and biological studies are required to further our understanding of some of these underlying mechanisms, so that effective prevention and treatment strategies for COVID-19 in patients with schizophrenia can be developed.

Risk of Pneumonia is associated with Antipsychotic Drug Use among older patients with Parkinson's Disease: A Case-control Study

Objective: To investigate the risk of pneumonia associated with the use of antipsychotic drugs in older-adult patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) in Taiwan. Methods: This case-control study was based on data from the longitudinal health insurance database in Taiwan. We analyzed the data of 51,158 older patients with PD for the period between 2001 and 2016. To reduce the potential confounding caused by unbalanced covariates in nonexperimental settings, we used propensity score matching to include older patients without pneumonia to serve as the control group. Results: Compared with patients who had never taken antipsychotics, current (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] =1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.51-1.75), recent (aOR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.52-1.74), and past (aOR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.80-2.00) users of antipsychotics had a higher risk of incident pneumonia. Among typical and atypical antipsychotics, haloperidol and clozapine were associated with higher risks of incident pneumonia, respectively. By contrast, aripiprazole was not associated with a higher risk of pneumonia. Conclusion: Older patients with PD receiving typical antipsychotics or atypical antipsychotics had a higher risk of pneumonia. Among these antipsychotics, clozapine had the highest risk of pneumonia. Clinicians should pay attention to the risk of pneumonia in older patients with PD who receive typical antipsychotics and atypical antipsychotics.

Oral health treatment habits of people with schizophrenia in France: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To identify the differences between persons with schizophrenia (PWS) and general population in France in terms of oral health treatment (tooth scaling, dental treatment and tooth extraction) and the factors associated with these differences.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included PWS identified from a representative sample of 1/97th of the French population (general sample of beneficiaries). PWS were identified from 2014 data by an algorithm that included: F2 diagnostic codes in the register of long-term diseases in 2014 AND {(at least three deliveries of antipsychotics in 2014) OR (F20 diagnostic codes as a main or associated diagnosis in hospital discharge abstracts in 2012 or 2013 (hospital data for medicine, surgery and obstetrics)}. Follow-up dental care was explored for all people over a period of 3 years (2014 to 2017).

RESULTS

In 2014, 580,219 persons older than 15 years were identified from the 96 metropolitan departments in France; 2,213 were PWS (0.4%). Fewer PWS were found along a diagonal line from north-east to south-west France, and the highest numbers were located in urban departments. PWS were more often male (58.6% vs 48.7%, p<0.001). They were less likely to have had tooth scaling but more likely to have undergone a dental extraction. In one third of departments, more than 50% of PWS had at least one tooth scaling over a three-year period; the rate of dental extraction in these departments ranged from 6 to 23%. Then, a quarter of the departments in which 40 to 100% of PWS had had at least one dental extraction (2/8) presented a rate of tooth scaling ranging from 0 to 28% over the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the general population, PWS were less likely to have had tooth scaling and dental treatment but more likely to have undergone dental extraction.

[A caregiver-person with schizophrenia partnership to improve oral health education]

INTRODUCTION

Poor oral health in persons with schizophrenia is a major public health issue affecting 600,000 people in France. The aim of this article was to present the different stages in the development of a specific oral health educational program for persons with schizophrenia. It takes into account experimental knowledge of these persons and presents the results of the feasibility study.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

The focus group method was applied to a group of health professionals and users to highlight an exploratory corpus in order to develop an oral health educational program. An expert group including persons with schizophrenia among others validated the fields and tools of this program. A feasibility study was then conducted in a control group of 7 persons with schizophrenia.

RESULTS

Altogether, 26 persons participated in this feasibility study. The main fields investigated by the expert group aimed to promote personal responsibility for one’s health, to improve access to the healthcare system and to promote the global management of health. The feasibility study showed the ability of this program to change persons with schizophrenia representations and knowledge of this health problem. Most educational tools were considered relevant.

CONCLUSION

An oral health educational program was built as part of a caregiver-persons with schizophrenia partnership and showed its feasibility. A multicentric randomized trial is currently ongoing to assess the efficacy of this program with a high level of proof.

Mental Disabilities Increase the Risk of Respiratory Infection-related Healthcare Utilization

Patients with chronic mental illness are highly vulnerable to chronic respiratory problems. We examined the influence of mental disability on respiratory infection-related utilization risk in individuals with and without mental disabilities (MDs). A population-based, retrospective cohort design and two-part model were used to analyze respiratory infection-related utilization in individuals with MDs (MD group) and a matched reference group. The respiratory infection-related utilization rate in one year was lower in the MD group (53.8%) than in the reference group (56.6%). The odds ratios (ORs) were significantly higher among individuals with profound MDs (aOR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.07–1.14) and those with a history of dental cavities (aOR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.13–1.19) or periodontal disease (aOR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.19–1.26) after controlling for covariables. The average number of visits was higher in the MD group (5.3) than in the reference group (4.0). The respiratory infection-related utilization rate and average number of visits were significantly higher in the mild, moderate and severe disabled groups with a history of periodontal disease, respectively, than that of the reference group. In conclusion, healthcare authorities must develop an incentive program to prevent respiratory infections among individuals with MDs.

Coping Strategies for Oral Health Problems by People with Schizophrenia

BACKGROUND

Persons with schizophrenia are particularity susceptible to poor oral health. Symptoms of schizophrenia often affect oral health behaviors and lifestyle. The aim was to explore coping strategies used by people with schizophrenia in oral health in order to understand and to best involve them in the management of their own oral health in daily life.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is systematic review reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statements. We included cross-sectional and longitudinal quantitative and qualitative studies that 1) examined coping strategies regarding oral health in persons with schizophrenia or 2) examined coping strategies were used in dental care. We included studies conducted with at least one PWS aged 18 years old more and without restriction on sex, socioeconomic status, or language.

RESULTS

The 8 studies included suggest that coping strategies depends on complex translation processes that can be either personal (e.g., psychological symptomatology, neuropsychological functioning to adversely affect hope, self-esteem, self-stigma, self-determination, sense of coherence, and resilience) and/or environmental factors (e.g., peer support and efficacy of rehabilitations programs). We further identified that the main factor influencing coping strategies was dental stress situation.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that coping strategies play a crucial role in the recovery process for oral health of PWS. Translation processes in oral health should be more explored in the future to clarify the capacity of PWS to cope with essential self-care in oral health on daily life.

Higher mortality and years of potential life lost of suicide in patients with schizophrenia

Patients with schizophrenia could have a higher risk of mortality. We compared the risk of mortality and the years of potential life lost (YPLL) associated with various causes of death between patients with schizophrenia and the general population. A total of 4,298 patients with schizophrenia were included. The cohort was linked to the Taiwan Death Register between 1998 and 2010 using personal identification numbers, which showed 367 patients with schizophrenia had died by the end of 2010. The standard mortality ratios (SMRs) and YPLL were analyzed by age, sex and cause of death. The overall SMR was significantly higher in patients with schizophrenia. Suicide had the most significantly greater SMR, and the SMRs for physical illnesses, accidents and injuries were all significantly greater in patients with schizophrenia. Suicide had the largest YPLL/deaths among all causes of mortality in patients with schizophrenia. Suicide had the most significantly greater risk of mortality among patients with schizophrenia as compared with the general population. Patients with schizophrenia are highly vulnerable in terms of increased mortality and require special attention.

Quality of Diabetes Care for Individuals with Comorbid Chronic Psychotic Illness: A Sex-Based Analysis

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is common among individuals with chronic psychotic illness, yet they receive lower quality of diabetes care than those without psychosis. Men usually receive higher quality diabetes care than women, but whether this holds true in chronic psychotic illness populations is unknown. We aimed to determine whether quality of diabetes care differs between men and women with chronic psychotic illness.

METHODS

This population-based cohort study used Ontario health administrative data to compare women and men with comorbid chronic psychotic illness and diabetes mellitus (2011-2013). The primary outcome was adherence to diabetes monitoring guidelines, defined as ≥1 retinal exam, ≥4 hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) tests, and ≥1 dyslipidemia test during a 2-year period. Logistic regression models compared women to men to generate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and confidence intervals (95% CI), adjusting for potential confounding variables.

RESULTS

Women with chronic psychotic illness (n = 13,972) were slightly more likely to receive guideline-adherent diabetes monitoring than men (n = 12,287) (25.2% vs. 23.0%; aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.10-1.30), including a greater likelihood of receiving ≥1 retinal exam (aOR 1.13, 95% CI 1.08-1.19) and ≥4 HbA1c tests (aOR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01-1.12). There was no difference in receipt of ≥1 dyslipidemia test (aOR 1.04, 95% CI 0.99-1.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Quality of diabetes monitoring is similarly poor in women and men with chronic psychotic illness, with women receiving only marginally more optimal monitoring than men. This differs from patterns in the general population, and could have implications when designing and implementing interventions to improve diabetes care in women and men with chronic psychotic illness.

Primary Care for Mentally Ill Adults in Acute Residential Treatment Facilities

Psychiatric bed capacity has decreased nationally with an impact on the number and the types of patients admitted to acute in-patient units. Acute residential programs provide alternatives to hospitals for patients with problems that do not meet criteria for admission. However, these settings may not have resources to respond to the medical co-morbidities associated with severe mental illness. To understand the medical needs of patients in these settings, this research examined data from a nurse-managed primary care outreach service. Prevalent problems included acute issues and chronic disorders associated with severe mental illness. In multivariate analyses, demographic and substance related factors contributed to all chronic illness. However, age was the over-riding predictor of cardio-metabolic disorders. Drug abuse consistently predicted HIV/AIDS and HCV risk. Findings demonstrate that patients diverted to alternative forms of acute psychiatric care are no less in need of medical services than those admitted to hospitals. This underscores the importance of primary care that is provided at the site of acute residential treatment and integrated with overall care.

Diabetes quality of care and outcomes: Comparison of individuals with and without schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE

Individuals with schizophrenia are more likely to develop diabetes than individuals without schizophrenia. The objective of this study was to determine the quality of diabetes care and diabetes-related health outcomes among individuals with and without schizophrenia.

METHOD

We conducted a retrospective cohort study. As of April 1, 2011, we identified all individuals with diabetes in Ontario with and without a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The main outcomes were quality of diabetes care (guideline-concordant testing for HbA1c, lipid testing, eye exams) and diabetes-related Emergency Department (ED) visits and hospitalizations between April 1, 2011 and March 31, 2013. We compared quality of care and diabetes outcomes among those with and without schizophrenia, adjusting for demographic, illness severity, and health service utilization variables.

RESULTS

We identified 1,131,375 individuals with diabetes, among whom 25,628 (2.3%) had schizophrenia. Schizophrenia was associated with reduced likelihood of optimal diabetes care (all 3 of HbA1c, lipid testing, and eye exams) (adjusted OR (95% CI): 0.64 (0.61-0.67)) and increased likelihood of diabetes-related ED visits (adjusted OR (95% CI): 1.34 (1.28-1.41)) and hospitalizations (adjusted OR (95% CI): 1.36 (1.28-1.43)).

CONCLUSION

Individuals with diabetes and schizophrenia have lower rates of recommended testing and higher rates of diabetes-related hospital visits than those with diabetes but without schizophrenia. Research is needed to understand patient, provider, and system factors underlying these disparities and test related interventions to close the gaps in quality of care.

Risk excess of mortality and use of antipsychotics: a case-noncase study

Severe mental disorders are associated with an increased mortality risk and the use of antipsychotic drugs may be one of the causes. In this study, we addressed the potential association of the reported mortality among patients on antipsychotics compared to other drugs from a pharmacovigilance database with the aim of evaluating the drug-induced mortality risk. A database containing 189 441 entries of suspected adverse reactions reported from 1 January 1995 to 31 December 2012 was explored for fatal outcomes. Potential disproportionality was estimated using the reporting odds ratio, proportional reporting ratio, and the χ-test. Two-hundred fatal outcomes were reported in patients on antipsychotics, which indicated the occurrence of disproportionality for this pharmacological class compared with any other drugs. When data were analysed by antipsychotic subclass, disproportionality was found only for atypical but not for typical antipsychotics. When individually analysed by active substances and routes, only a few substances were found to show disproportionality. The disproportionality encountered in this study compared with the mortality associated with other drugs suggests that the active substances under study may be associated with a mortality risk higher than what is assumed currently. Also, it suggests that atypical antipsychotics are likely to have a mortality risk higher than the risk of typical antipsychotics. The disproportionality found for zuclopentixol, in both oral and depot formulations, can be considered to be a drug surveillance signal.

Experience of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners in Public Mental Health

Expansion of health insurance coverage under the Accountable Care Act has meant that millions of people are now insured for mental health treatment, but with no significant increase in the mental health workforce. Services of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) may be best utilized to improve access to and quality of public mental health services if the financial, political, scope of practice, and treatment model barriers that limit their ability or willingness to practice in these settings are better understood. This article reports qualitative results from a study that assessed barriers and best practices in the use of PMHNPs in county mental health services in California. Results indicate that PMHNPs are valued for their "whole person" perspective, collaborative approach, and interpersonal communication skills, but that significant knowledge gaps, regulatory constraints, and bureaucratic barriers in public mental health systems inhibit PMHNPs from practicing at the top of their scope.

The epidemiology of diabetes in psychotic disorders

Diabetes is highly prevalent in people with psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders. Exact prevalence is difficult to estimate, since diabetes is often underdiagnosed in people with psychosis. Results of several studies show that the prevalence of diabetes exceeds that in the general population, with documented prevalence in those with psychosis ranging from 1·26% to 50% across studies (median 13%). The association between diabetes and psychosis is complex and multifactorial. Many of the traditional risk factors for disease have increased prevalence in patients with psychotic disorders. In addition to these traditional risk factors, people with psychosis have unique risks that might have additive or even synergistic effects. These risks include the use of antipsychotic medication, the effects of adverse social determinants of health, and genetic loading. Despite evidence that rates of diabetes are increased in individuals with psychosis, many of these patients are not diagnosed or treated, resulting in increased diabetes-associated morbidity and mortality. Specific patient factors, provider issues, and systems-level factors contribute to the treatment gap. Interventions at both the clinical and public health levels are needed to successfully address this problem.

Review of the evidence: prevalence of medical conditions in the United States population with serious mental illness

OBJECTIVE

Persons with serious mental illness (SMI) have high rates of premature mortality from preventable medical conditions, but this group is underrepresented in epidemiologic surveys and we lack national estimates of the prevalence of conditions such as obesity and diabetes in this group. We performed a comprehensive review to synthesize estimates of the prevalence of 15 medical conditions among the population with SMI.

METHOD

We reviewed studies published in the peer-reviewed literature from January 2000 to August 2012. Studies were included if they assessed prevalence in a sample of 100 or more United States (US) adults with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

RESULTS

A total of 57 studies were included in the review. For most medical conditions, the prevalence estimates varied considerably. For example, estimates of obesity prevalence ranged from 26% to 55%. This variation appeared to be due to differences in measurement (e.g., self-report versus clinical measures) and underlying differences in study populations. Few studies assessed prevalence in representative, community samples of persons with SMI.

CONCLUSIONS

In many studies, the prevalence of medical conditions among the population with SMI was higher than among the overall US population. Screening for and monitoring of these conditions should be common practice in clinical settings serving persons with SMI.

Association between schizophrenia symptoms and neurocognition on mobility in older adults with schizophrenia

OBJECTIVES

Older persons with schizophrenia develop problems associated with aging, such as poor mobility, at more rapid rates than people without serious mental illness. Decrements in mobility contribute to poor health outcomes. Impaired neurocognitive function and psychiatric symptoms are central aspects of schizophrenia. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between neurocognitive impairment and schizophrenia symptoms to mobility in older adults with schizophrenia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with 46 older adults with schizophrenia. Participants were assessed on neurocognitive function (MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery), psychiatric symptoms (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale or PANSS), and mobility (Timed Get Up and Go or TGUG test). Pearson's bivariate correlations (two-tailed) and a simultaneous regression model were used.

RESULTS

Lower severity of negative symptoms and faster speed of processing tests were associated with faster TGUG time in bivariate correlations and multivariate regression analyses (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that lower negative symptoms and faster speed of processing positively impact mobility in older patients with schizophrenia. Mobility interventions for this population need to target neurocognitive impairment and schizophrenia symptoms for optimal results.

"It's good for me": physical activity in older adults with schizophrenia

Physical activity (PA) interventions to improve the physical function of older adults with schizophrenia are necessary but not available. Older adults with schizophrenia may have unique barriers and facilitators to PA. The purpose of this study was to describe the perceptions of older adults with schizophrenia about barriers and facilitators to engage in physical activities that promote physical function. We conducted qualitative interviews with 16 older adults with schizophrenia. Data were collected and analyzed with grounded theory methodology. Participants expressed interest in becoming more physically active for a variety of perceived benefits including psychiatric symptom management and maintenance of basic function. Key barriers and facilitators to PA emerged in five broad categories: Mental Health, No longer a spring chicken, Pride and Sense of Well-being, Comfort and Safety, and Belonging. Interventions in this population should address negative attitudes towards aging and promote routine physical activities that enhance well-being and companionship.

"We're not just sitting on the periphery": a staff perspective of physical activity in older adults with schizophrenia

Targeted physical activity interventions to improve the poor physical function of older adults with schizophrenia are necessary but currently not available. Given disordered thought processes and institutionalization, it is likely that older adults with schizophrenia have unique barriers and facilitators to physical activity. It is necessary to consider the perspective of the mental health staff about barriers and facilitators to physical activity to design a feasible intervention.

PURPOSE OF THIS STUDY

To describe the perceptions of mental health staff about barriers and facilitators to engage in physical activities that promote physical function among older adults with schizophrenia.

DESIGN AND METHOD

We conducted qualitative interviews with 23 mental health staff that care for older adults with schizophrenia. The data were collected and analyzed with grounded theory methodology.

RESULTS

The participants were interested in promoting physical activity with older adults with schizophrenia. Facilitators and barriers to physical activity identified were mental health, role models and rewards, institutional factors, and safety.

IMPLICATIONS

In order to design successful physical activity interventions for this population, the intervention may need to be a routine part of the mental health treatment program and patients may need incentives to participate. Staff should be educated that physical activity may provide the dual benefit of physical and mental health treatment.

The incidence and all-cause mortality of pneumonia in patients with schizophrenia: a nine-year follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to estimate the incidence, all-cause mortality and relative risks for patients with schizophrenia after a pneumonia diagnosis.

METHODS

The population was identified from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in 1999 and included 59,021 patients with schizophrenia and 236,084 age- and sex-matched control participants without schizophrenia. These participants were randomly selected from the 23,981,020-participant NHIRD, which contain 96% of the entire population. Using the 2000-2008 NIHRD, the incidence and nine-year pneumonia-free survival rate of pneumonia (ICD-9-CM codes 486 and 507.0-507.8) were calculated.

RESULTS

Over nine years, 6055 (10.26%) patients with schizophrenia and 7844 (3.32%) controls had pneumonia. The pneumonia incidence density was 11.4/1000 person-years among the patients with schizophrenia, who experienced a 3.09-fold increased risk of developing pneumonia. After adjusting for other covariates, the patients with schizophrenia still experienced a 1.77-fold increased risk of developing pneumonia. Although, without adjustment, fewer schizophrenia patients than controls died after having pneumonia (2121 [35.12%] vs. 3497 [44.62%]), after adjusting for other variables, the mortality hazard ratio for patients with schizophrenia was 1.39.

CONCLUSIONS

During a nine-year follow-up, the likelihood of developing pneumonia and all-cause mortality among patients with schizophrenia was higher than that of the non-schizophrenia group as was the mortality rate. Interestingly, the psychiatric proportion of days covered (PDC) was positively associated with pneumonia (OR: 2.51) but negatively associated with death (HR: 0.72). These findings imply the importance of iatrogenic factors and psychotropic drugs (including their benefits and side effects) and highlight the directions for future studies.

Medication adherence among older adults with schizophrenia

Older adults with schizophrenia are a growing segment of the population, yet their physical and mental health status is extremely poor. This article presents findings from a qualitative study that explored the understanding older adults with schizophrenia have of their physical health status. The study was conducted among 28 older adults with schizophrenia from a variety of settings using semi-structured interviews and participant observation. Self-management of psychiatric and non-psychiatric medications and its effect on participants' health status was one of the central themes that emerged from the study. Different styles of medication adherence were identified and factors associated with each style are presented. The findings provide insights into the design of clinical interventions aimed at promoting medication adherence among older adults with schizophrenia.

Differences in substance-related risk behavior between dual and triple diagnosed severely mentally ill adults

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine if differences exist between adults with dual and triple diagnoses with regard to substance-related risk behaviors. METHODS: This secondary analysis was a cross-sectional study. There were 252 subjects with dual and triple diagnoses recruited from residential crisis programs in San Francisco. Using descriptive and logistic regression analyses, subjects in the two groups were compared with regard to demographic data, types of substances, and routes of administration used in the previous 30 days to determine risk for exposure and/or transmission of HIV/HCV. RESULTS: When compared to the dual diagnosis group, subjects with triple diagnoses were four times more likely to have engaged in IDU (p=.001) and 2.6 times more likely to use amphetamines (p=.05). They also reported using more types of substances over the lifetime (p<.0001). But with regard to other risk behaviors such as alcohol use to intoxication and cocaine/crack use, there were no significant differences. CONCLUSION: Though many substance-related risk behaviors occurred in both groups, adults with triple diagnoses were more likely to engage in IDU, amphetamine use, and to use more types of substances over the lifetime. This information has the potential to inform interventions that might prevent/reduce substance-related risk in this population.

The 3-year clinical and functional course of schizophrenia among individuals with and without diabetes at study entry

OBJECTIVE

This prospective observational study compared the 3-year clinical and functional course of schizophrenia among individuals with and without diabetes at study entry.

METHOD

Data were drawn from a large, 3-year, multisite, prospective, naturalistic study of treatment for schizophrenia-related disorders. The study was conducted in the United States between July 1997 and September 2003 and represented treatment practices in diverse systems of care. Participants were diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective or schizophreniform disorders based on DSM-IV criteria. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed at study enrollment and at 12-month intervals using standard psychiatric measures, medical records, and a validated patient-reported questionnaire. Diabetes status was determined by participant interview at enrollment. Statistical analyses used mixed models with repeated measures.

RESULTS

Of 594 participants queried about comorbid medical conditions at enrollment, 76 (12.8%) reported having diabetes. Other comor-bid conditions were reported by 79% of the diabetes group (N = 60) and 50% of the nondiabetes group (N = 259). Across the 3-year study, participants with diabetes differed significantly from participants without diabetes on 2 of 36 outcome measures: more contacts with nonpsychiatrist physicians (p < .001) and poorer physical health (p = .015). Groups did not differ significantly on mental health symptomatology, mental health resource utilization, legal and safety issues, substance use, productivity, activities and relationships, or quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

In this 3-year, prospective, naturalistic study, the course of schizophrenia did not differ significantly between participants with and without diabetes, although persons with diabetes did have poorer physical health and more contacts with nonpsychiatrist physicians. Findings highlight the need for better medical treatment for people with schizophrenia, both with and without comorbid diabetes.

Physical illness in patients with severe mental disorders. I. Prevalence, impact of medications and disparities in health care

The lifespan of people with severe mental illness (SMI) is shorter compared to the general population. This excess mortality is mainly due to physical illness. We report prevalence rates of different physical illnesses as well as important individual lifestyle choices, side effects of psychotropic treatment and disparities in health care access, utilization and provision that contribute to these poor physical health outcomes. We searched MEDLINE (1966 - August 2010) combining the MeSH terms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder with the different MeSH terms of general physical disease categories to select pertinent reviews and additional relevant studies through cross-referencing to identify prevalence figures and factors contributing to the excess morbidity and mortality rates. Nutritional and metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, viral diseases, respiratory tract diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, sexual dysfunction, pregnancy complications, stomatognathic diseases, and possibly obesity-related cancers are, compared to the general population, more prevalent among people with SMI. It seems that lifestyle as well as treatment specific factors account for much of the increased risk for most of these physical diseases. Moreover, there is sufficient evidence that people with SMI are less likely to receive standard levels of care for most of these diseases. Lifestyle factors, relatively easy to measure, are barely considered for screening; baseline testing of numerous important physical parameters is insufficiently performed. Besides modifiable lifestyle factors and side effects of psychotropic medications, access to and quality of health care remains to be improved for individuals with SMI.

The psychiatric nurse's role in application of recovery and decision-making models to integrate health behaviors in the recovery process

Recovery from mental illness is a process that involves personal decision-making in many areas. Nurses are in a unique position to assist individuals in assessing their personal health status and integrating health behaviors into their recovery plans. The use of assessment tools, motivational interviewing techniques, and recovery planning can help individuals make decisions about their health, try out new behaviors, and integrate healthy living behaviors into a recovery plan and activities. This role of the nurse in this process is outlined, strategies are described, and outcome examples are provided.

Older adults with schizophrenia finding a place to belong

Older adults with schizophrenia experience a high prevalence of comorbid conditions. The perspective of older adults with schizophrenia about their physical health has not been considered as a contributing factor. This paper presents findings from a grounded theory study that explored this perspective among 28 older adults with schizophrenia. Analyses revealed that finding a sense of belonging supported feeling physically healthy. A sense of connection with others and a physical place were associated with supporting a sense of belonging. Awareness of the facilitators of and barriers to finding a place to belong is key to improving the physical health of this vulnerable population.

Challenges and struggles: lived experiences of individuals with co-occurring disorders

Approximately 20 million people have substance abuse disorder in a given year, and approximately 7-10 million of them will have co-occurring disorders (CODs) of both mental illness and substance abuse. Individuals with COD have higher rates of other chronic health problems (i.e., diabetes) and multiple rehospitalizations and overutilize emergent services. Despite their elevated risk for physical morbidities, there is a dearth of literature that focuses on the impact for those with COD of having multiple physical health disorders. The purpose of this interpretive study was to understand, describe, and illustrate the social and structural barriers that individuals with COD of mental illness, substance abuse, and general medical conditions encounter in regard to their health care. A purposive sampling of 20 individuals with COD (11 men and 9 women; 65% African American) were recruited from community treatment centers and supportive housing sites. Social and structural barriers to managing medical health conditions while living with COD were identified in three realms: (a) in having interpersonal relationships with health care providers, (b) in negotiating an arduous health care "system," and (c) in trying to manage health conditions while living in unstable shelter.

Powerlessness, marginalized identity, and silencing of health concerns: voiced realities of women living with a mental health diagnosis

Using a feminist qualitative approach, this study substantiated many earlier research findings that document how women with a mental health diagnosis experience unequal access to comprehensive health care compared to the general population. Accounts of this disparity are documented in the literature, yet the literature has failed to record or attend to the voices of those living with mental health challenges. In this paper, women living with a mental health diagnosis describe their experiences as they interface with the health-care system. The participating women's stories clearly relate the organizational and interpersonal challenges commonly faced when they seek health-care services. The stories include experiences of marginalized identity, powerlessness, and silencing of voiced health concerns. The women tell of encountered gaps in access to health care and incomplete health assessment, screening, and treatment. It becomes clear that personal and societal stigmatization related to the mental health diagnosis plays a significant role in these isolating and unsatisfactory experiences. Lastly, the women offer beginning ideas for change by suggesting starting points to eliminate the institutional and interpersonal obstacles or barriers to their wellness. The concerns raised demand attention, reconsideration, and change by those in the health-care system responsible for policy and practice.

Non-psychiatric hospitalization of people with mental illness: systematic review

AIM

This paper is a report of a literature review of the evidence regarding outcomes experienced by severely mentally ill individuals hospitalized in general medical-surgical settings for non-psychiatric conditions.

BACKGROUND

Severely mentally ill individuals experience chronic medical illnesses at a rate greater than the general population. When hospitalized in non-psychiatric settings, they tend to be experienced as 'difficult' by nurses and to have longer lengths of stay.

DATA SOURCES

The CINAHL and PUBMED databases were searched from 1 to 9 March 2008 to identify studies published between 1998 and 2008 investigating outcomes among people with mental illness hospitalized for non-psychiatric illness in general hospitals.

METHODS

Included studies were those published in English in peer reviewed journals and investigating patient outcomes. The studies were reviewed for relevance and inclusion criteria; the methodological quality of studies was not evaluated.

RESULTS

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria. All studies examining length of stay, costs of care or resource utilization showed increased measures for patients with psychiatric comorbidity. Interventions described included psychiatric liaison psychiatry and nursing, which failed to demonstrate improvement in outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Nurses play a pivotal role in improving the inpatient care of this vulnerable population, but they struggle in their attempts to do so. Research to determine the best approaches to promote nurses' knowledge, positive attitudes and self-confidence in caring for patients with psychiatric comorbidity is needed. Investigation of the patient perspective on the inpatient experience might also provide insight for designing effective care processes.

Differentiating nicotine- versus schizophrenia-associated decreases of the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor transcript, CHRFAM7A, in peripheral blood lymphocytes

Nicotine addiction is prevalent in individuals with schizophrenia. Nicotine activation of nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) is time- and dose-dependent, but gene expression analyses often rely on qualitative self- or family-reported measures of smoking. We sought lymphocyte surrogates for cerebral alpha7-nAChR activity and tested if receptor transcription correlated with concurrently measured serum biomarkers for smoking [cotinine, C-reactive protein (CRP)]. PCR surveys to detect lymphocytic alpha7-related isoforms identified CHRFAM7A as the only consistently amplifiable transcript. In 20 smoking-matched people (n = 10 schizophrenia, n = 10 controls), we found significantly lower CHRFAM7A in cotinine and self-reported smokers versus nonsmokers (p <or= 0.001-0.03) and an inverse correlation of cotinine with CHRFAM7A (p <or= 0.04) in regression models. CHRFAM7A was not associated with diagnosis or CRP in any bi- or multi-variate analysis. Smoking-related CRP elevations only occurred in cotinine-based comparisons (p <or= 0.03), and not when smoking was self-reported. Including biochemical indicators of serum nicotine can help differentiate smoking- versus disease-associated changes in nAChR expression.

Relative risk of diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and the metabolic syndrome in people with severe mental illnesses: systematic review and metaanalysis

BACKGROUND

Severe mental illnesses (SMI) may be independently associated with cardiovascular risk factors and the metabolic syndrome. We aimed to systematically assess studies that compared diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and metabolic syndrome in people with and without SMI.

METHODS

We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL & PsycINFO. We hand searched reference lists of key articles. We employed three search main themes: SMI, cardiovascular disease, and each cardiovascular risk factor. We selected cross-sectional, case control, cohort or intervention studies comparing one or more risk factor in both SMI and a reference group. We excluded studies without any reference group. We extracted data on: study design, cardiovascular risk factor(s) and their measurement, diagnosis of SMI, study setting, sampling method, nature of comparison group and data on key risk factors.

RESULTS

Of 14592 citations, 134 papers met criteria and 36 were finally included. 26 reported on diabetes, 12 hypertension, 11 dyslipidaemia, and 4 metabolic syndrome. Most studies were cross sectional, small and several lacked comparison data suitable for extraction. Meta-analysis was possible for diabetes, cholesterol and hypertension; revealing a pooled risk ratio of 1.70 (1.21 to 2.37) for diabetes and 1.11 (0.91 to 1.35) of hypertension. Restricting SMI to schizophreniform illnesses yielded a pooled risk ratio for diabetes of 1.87 (1.68 to 2.09). Total cholesterol was not higher in people with SMI (Standardized Mean Difference -0.10 (-0.55 to 0.36)) and there were inconsistent data on HDL, LDL and triglycerides with some, but not all, reporting lower levels of HDL cholesterol and raised triglyceride levels. Metabolic syndrome appeared more common in SMI.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes (but not hypertension) is more common in SMI. Data on other risk factors were limited by poor quality or inconsistent research findings, but a small number of studies show greater prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in SMI.

Physical illness and schizophrenia: a review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

The lifespan of people with schizophrenia is shortened compared to the general population. We reviewed the literature on comorbid physical diseases in schizophrenia to provide a basis for initiatives to fight this unacceptable situation.

METHOD

We searched MEDLINE (1966 - May 2006) combining the MeSH term of schizophrenia with the 23 MeSH terms of general physical disease categories to identify relevant epidemiological studies.

RESULTS

A total of 44 202 abstracts were screened. People with schizophrenia have higher prevalences of HIV infection and hepatitis, osteoporosis, altered pain sensitivity, sexual dysfunction, obstetric complications, cardiovascular diseases, overweight, diabetes, dental problems, and polydipsia than the general population. Rheumatoid arthritis and cancer may occur less frequently than in the general population. Eighty-six per cent of the studies came from industrialized countries limiting the generalizability of the findings.

CONCLUSION

The increased frequency of physical diseases in schizophrenia might be on account of factors related to schizophrenia and its treatment, but undoubtedly also results from the unsatisfactory organization of health services, from the attitudes of medical doctors, and the social stigma ascribed to the schizophrenic patients.

Pulmonary disease among inpatient decedents: Impact of schizophrenia

OBJECTIVES

Determine the risk associated with schizophrenia for common pulmonary illness (pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)) during the last year of life.

METHODS

Inpatient decedents in Veterans (VA) hospitals in 2002 (N=27,798) were identified. Logistic regression modeled diagnosis of pulmonary illness in either the final year or final admission as a function of schizophrenia, smoking history and other covariates.

RESULTS

Among decedents, 943 (3%) had schizophrenia, 3% were women, most were white (76%) or African-American (18%), and average age at death was 72.4 years (SD 11.5). Three-fifths received VA outpatient care in the year prior to death. Among those with schizophrenia, only two-fifths had outpatient care. Pneumonia was more common among schizophrenia patients (38% vs 31%) as was COPD (46% vs 38%). In models controlling for history of smoking and other covariates, schizophrenia was a risk factor for pulmonary disease in the last year of life (OR=1.9, 95% CI 1.6-2.2) but less so for final-stay pulmonary disease (OR=1.5, 95% CI 1.3-1.7).

CONCLUSIONS

VA inpatient decedents with schizophrenia were at increased risk for pneumonia and COPD, independent of smoking indicators. Clinicians treating schizophrenia patients need to be especially alert to potential comorbid medical conditions and ensure vulnerable patients receive appropriate care.

Residential mobility of individuals with diagnosed schizophrenia: a comparison of single and multiple movers

BACKGROUND

Several studies have compared the residential mobility of individuals with schizophrenia to mobility of individuals with other mental disorders or with no mental disorders. Little research has been undertaken to describe differences between single (i.e., infrequent) and multiple (i.e., frequent) movers with schizophrenia, and the association between frequency of mobility and health and health service use.

METHODS

The data source is population-based administrative records from the province of Manitoba, Canada. Hospital separations and physicians claims are linked to health registration files to identify a cohort with diagnosed schizophrenia and track changes in residential postal code over time. Single movers (N = 736), who had only one postal code change in a 2.5-year observation period, are compared to multiple movers (N = 252), who had two or more postal code changes. Differences in demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic characteristics, measures of health service use, and the prevalence of several chronic diseases were examined using chi(2) tests, logistic regression, and generalized linear regression.

RESULTS

Multiple movers were significantly more likely to be young, live in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods, and reside in the urban core. The prevalence of a co-occurring substance use disorder and arthritis was higher for multiple than single movers. Use of acute and ambulatory care for schizophrenia, other mental disorders, as well as physical disorders was generally higher for multiple than single movers.

CONCLUSIONS

Frequency of mobility should be considered in the development of needs-based funding plans and service delivery interventions. Other opportunities to use record-linkage techniques to examine residential mobility are considered.

Cigarette smoking and overweight/obesity among individuals with serious mental illnesses: a preventive perspective

BACKGROUND

Cigarette smoking and lifestyle factors underlying overweight/obesity (such as unhealthy diet and physical inactivity) appear to play a major role in the excess medical morbidity and mortality among persons with serious mental illnesses. The literature on the prevalence, etiology, prevention, and treatment of these two risk factors, in the context of serious mental illnesses, are reviewed following a preventive approach.

METHODS

The review relied upon searches of the MEDLINE database, from 1996 through April 2006, restricted to the English language. Original research, review articles, and clinical guidelines relevant to the topics of cigarette smoking, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and overweight/obesity among individuals with serious mental illnesses were identified.

RESULTS

Compared to those without a mental illness, individuals with a current mental illness are more than twice as likely to smoke cigarettes and more than 50% more likely to be overweight/obese, presumably the product of unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. Various biological, iatrogenic, and social factors place psychiatric patients at risk for these and other adverse health behaviors. Studies suggest that many of the same preventive approaches developed for general medical populations are likely to be effective in persons with serious mental disorders, though specialized approaches also are needed. Domains of prevention include primary prevention (population-based strategies to reduce the incidence of these adverse health behaviors), secondary prevention (early detection and treatment), and tertiary prevention (pharmacological and psychosocial treatments to reduce the burden of illness among those with the behaviors in question). However, mental health clinicians commonly lack the training or expertise to provide these services.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence, adverse effects, and efficaciousness of treatments for smoking and obesity in persons with serious mental illnesses suggest the importance of addressing these problems in this population. Both further research and dissemination efforts are needed to ensure that patients with serious mental illnesses receive the appropriate preventive and clinical services for these two adverse health conditions.

History of arrest, incarceration and victimization in community-based severely mentally ill

This study examined history of arrest and victimization in an urban community sample of severely mentally ill adults. Adults (n = 308) were consented and interviewed in one of four short-term residential treatment facilities in San Francisco. Nearly three quarters (71.4%) had been arrested at some time in their lives, 28.2% of whom had been arrested in the past 6 months. Substance use and homelessness were associated with history of arrest, while gender and ethnicity were not, although African Americans were more likely to have spent longer time in jail or prison. One quarter (25.6%) reported victimization. Being female (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.2-3.5, p = 0.032) and homeless (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.8, p = 0.013) were associated with reporting victimization. Severe mental illness, in particular in combination with substance abuse and homelessness, is associated with higher prevalence of both arrest and victimization history. Healthcare providers should solicit histories to include these events in order to understand and provide optimal care and case management services.

Acute versus primary care: the health care decision making process for individuals with severe mental illness

OBJECTIVES

This study's purpose was to determine factors influencing treatment choices of individuals with severe mental illness (SMI). The sample was drawn from admissions to residential crisis programs in San Francisco. Inclusion criteria were an Axis I and Axis III disorder.

METHODS

This qualitative study utilized grounded theory method. Interviews and field notes were coded for recurring themes. Descriptive data were also collected.

RESULTS

Participants revealed that the most important influences on treatment decisions were immediate need for care, the belief that their subacute complaints will not be taken seriously by providers, positive reinforcement for emergency service use, and enabling factors such as insurance coverage. Other remarkable findings included: numerous reports of substance induced medical crises, lack of support from family, and unawareness of client's medical conditions in psychiatric facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Health care seeking behaviors are learned and learning that will promote the use of outpatient services in SMI must include positive experiences in the delivery of care in the primary care setting. Participants were knowledgeable regarding their illnesses and able to articulate symptoms of illness well. Failure to communicate symptoms appeared to reflect the participant's perception of a lack of response to their reports.